What is the beta-carotene test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a beta-carotene test?
This test measures the amount of beta-carotene in the blood. This test also helps in measuring how well your body absorbs fat.
Also Read: Night Blindness
What is beta-carotene?
It is a type of carotenoid that is present in vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, spinach, sweet potatoes, and kale. Beta-carotenes (carotenoids) are a group of red, yellow, or orange pigments. Usually, they are found in vegetables, fruits, fungi, and flowers, among other living things.
What are the health benefits of beta-carotene?
Beta-carotene is a compound that is converted into vitamin A by the body. The significance of vitamin A is as follows:
- It reduces oxidative stress.
- It promotes eye health.
- It improves cognitive function.
- Maintain skin health.
- Supports lung health.
- It may prevent certain cancers.
Why is the test performed?
Beta-carotene is found in certain foods. It breaks down and becomes vitamin A in the body. This test is performed if you have signs of low vitamin A that include:
- Night blindness
- Dry or inflamed eyes
- Irritable feeling
- Hair loss
- Loss of appetite
- Recurring infections
- Skin rashes
- Bones or teeth not developed properly
What is the normal range of beta-carotene tests?
Normal range: 50 to 300 mcg/dL or 0.93 to 5.59 micromol/L.
What does the low alpha-fetoprotein mean?
Low alpha-fetoprotein levels may also mean that the baby has a genetic disorder such as Down syndrome, a genetic problem that causes intellectual disabilities and health problems.
What does a high level indicate?
If the level is above 300 mcg/dL, it may be due to too much intake of vitamin A (hypervitaminosis A). Due to high levels of carotene, there is yellow-orange pigmentation in the body that condition is called carotenemia.
What does a low level indicate?
A low level indicates that you are malnourished due to beta-carotene deficiency. A beta-carotene insufficiency may result due to vitamin A deficiency. It can also occur if your body won’t absorb much fats due to the digestive tract such as:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Celiac disease (small intestine disorder)
- Pancreatitis (swelling and inflammation of the pancreas)
Also Read: Cystic Fibrosis
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